The saying goes, "Something they want, something they need. Something to wear, something to read." I am planning on trying to do that this year, but it could definitely prove difficult. See, growing up, I would walk out and have lots of gifts of all sizes under the tree, and having three other siblings, the rush felt so amazing to see what "Santa" brought. Now, whether it was that there were a ton of gifts, or just my perception because of age, who knows? But I definitely felt spoiled, and I've tried a few times to do this with my children, but each year we end up with way more toys than we know what to do with, and they don't even play with most of them now. Below is a guide of a mixture of some things we have that the kids love, some things I am hoping their grandparents get them, and of course 'Santa's Gifts'.
Up first is TOYS! I'd love all of these for my kids, but obviously they will not get them all. I'd rather go with creative and inspiring -- a whoopie cushion is always a great idea. My oldest is a fart freak; she loves making fart sounds.
- Melissa & Doug Mop and Broom: My 2 year old son loves this. He sees his father and I mopping, sweeping etc all the time and tries to copy and use the big broom and mop, so we decided to get this for him so it was easier for him to 'help' clean.
- Doctor set: My 6 year old daughter loves to play doctor and give us 'check-ups' and 'shots' almost daily, so this was a good investment.
- Whoopie Cushion: This is always perfect for if you want to make and hear your child crack up with laughter. This is my 11 year old's favorite thing to play with.
- Busy Board: These can be expensive but they are worth it. They occupy ages 1-3 extremely well.
Other good ideas for if you would rather give them experiences, rather than physical toys are things such as
1. Classes - Music, dance, riding, drawing classes are great ways to encourage artistic interests and let your children know that you pay attention to them and what things they enjoy.
2. Memberships - The zoo, science museum, children's museum, YMCA etc. are great for family gifts because many young families love to enjoy outings.
3. Something for their room - Do they need new bedding? A lamp or shelf? Perhaps an alarm clock? Maybe an organizational caddy. Many older children like to display Lego or art creations somewhere that a younger sibling cannot reach.
4. Events - Movie tickets, tickets to a play, concert or sports events can be exciting!
5. Activities - Things such as mini golf, bowling (glo bowling), ice or roller skating. These are usually a ton of fun for kids, especially going together as a family or group.
6. Arts & Craft Supplies - If you already have a craft box, stock up on new, fun things the kids haven't used before.
7. Books - Minimize a ton of books and the shelf by getting books on a kindle. Audiobooks work as well.
8. Clothes - Make a point to get something that fits their style.
9. A Watch - Nowadays, children don't know how to read analog. Get them a cool watch that makes them want to be able to tell time.
10. Puzzles - These are great activities for when kids are inside. It is good practice to have individual quiet times during the day, and puzzles help brain development and problem solving.
11. Games - Games such as Monopoly or Life help math and living skills. Memory games are great for younger children.
12. Music - Getting an mp3 player with their favorite music on it is great for older kids and teens.
13. Shoes and Boots - Snowboots or rubber rain boots are always great ideas.
14. An umbrella - My kids love umbrellas and getting to use them outside. Show them that you pay attention by getting a themed umbrella.
Here are some gifts by age
1. Foogo Sippy Cup $18.65 @ Amazon
2. Car Seat Activity Toy
3. Bath Toys
4. Board Books
5. Teething Toy
6. Slumberkins Stuffed Animal & Cuddle Pet $38.00 @ Slumberkins
7. Pretend Phone
1. Play Doh
2. Coloring Books
3. Bubbles
4. Stickers
5. Dolls / Cars
6. Balls
7. Sunglasses
1. Baby doll
2. Jewelry
3. Night Light
4. Cars
5. Play Sword
6. Glow-in-the-Dark Stars
1. Movies
2. Watch
3. Slime
4. Paper dolls
5. Pokemon Cards
6. Nerf toys
7. Video Games
1. Camera
2. Gift Cards
3. Jewelry Making Kit
4. Flashlight
5. Comics
6. Lip Gloss
1. Headphones
2. Speaker
3. Video Games
4. Jewelry
5. iPod
6. Movies